DARE anyone whisper the phrase "premiership title contenders" to the New Zealand Warriors? A club record sixth win in succession over the Cronulla Sharks in Auckland yesterday has kept the Warriors right in the hunt for the National Rugby League minor premiership.

IT has been confirmed today that St George Illawara winger, Nathan Blacklock is to retire.Blacklock joined the Dragons in 1997 and has had a major role to play in the clubs success on the field. "Tinga" turned into a try scoring machine for the Dragons and his ability to create play from nothing was a godsend. His friendship on and off the feild with team mate Anthony Mundine was often highlighted by the mutual understanding the 2 men had while playing. Both seemed aware of the others moves and they would often create surprise moves that would result in tries. His characteristic after try celebration of a somersault will be missed by fans the world over.

: Robert Tanielu normally starts lugging around crates of fruit and vegetables in a Brisbane market while most of us are sleeping. But this week the Christchurch-born rugby league prop has been given time off to concentrate on carting up the football for the Brisbane Broncos.